Cold wave grips North India; Weather Department issues alerts, 129 flights canceled

North India is experiencing severe cold, dense fog, and worsening air pollution. Daily life has been disrupted as road, rail, and air traffic face major delays. In Delhi alone, 129 flights were canceled due to low visibility.

Post Published By: Sona Saini

Updated : 21 December 2025, 7:33 AM IST

Severe Cold and Dense Fog Trigger Alerts; 129 Flights Grounded

New Delhi: North India is currently grappling with biting cold, dense fog, and icy winds. The cold wave has intensified across the region, from the hilly states to the plains. Extremely low visibility during the mornings and nights has severely disrupted daily life, as well as road, rail, and air traffic. In Delhi alone, 129 flights had to be canceled on Saturday, causing significant inconvenience to passengers.

Toxic Smog and Pollution in Delhi-NCR

Along with the cold, air pollution has also reached critical levels in Delhi-NCR. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, Delhi's average Air Quality Index (AQI) was recorded at 398 on Saturday evening, falling into the 'very poor' category. The situation was even more severe in Noida, with an AQI of 401. Pollution levels remain alarming in Gurugram, Ghaziabad, and Greater Noida as well. In several areas of Delhi, the AQI was recorded above 420.

Fog Disrupts Traffic, Flights Canceled

Dense fog has brought vehicular traffic to a standstill on the roads. The lack of sunshine throughout the day has further intensified the cold. At Indira Gandhi International Airport, 63 departing and 66 arriving flights were canceled. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and airlines have advised passengers to check their flight status before leaving home.

Weather Department Alert, Cold Expected to Intensify

The Meteorological Department has issued an orange alert for cold weather in Delhi. Temperatures are expected to continue to drop due to cloud cover and fog. These conditions are likely to persist until December 22nd. A red alert has been issued for very dense fog in several districts of Uttar Pradesh, where visibility has dropped to zero in some places.

Snowfall Expected in the Mountains

In Jammu and Kashmir, the 40-day period of intense cold, known as 'Chilla-i-Kalan', began on Sunday. Rain and snowfall are expected in Himachal Pradesh, Kashmir, and Ladakh over the next few days. This is likely to further intensify the cold in the plains.